Greece claims comfortable win as the All Whites look ahead to Ireland

New Zealand’s Chris Wood, Greece’s Konstantinos Mavropanos. Greece v New Zealand All Whites International football friendly at Georgios Kamaras Stadium, Athens, Greece on Friday 17 November 2023. Photo credit: Yorgos Karahalis / www.photosport.nz Photo: www.photosport.nz

The All Whites were outclassed 2-0 by the former European Champions Greece after the hosts blitzed the opening half in Athens.

Greek youngster Giannis Konstantealis capitalised on some shaky New Zealand defence in the 10th minute to open the scoring.

New Zealand goalkeeper Michael Woud was out of position as the ball crept inside the far post.

A second goal to the hosts in the 29th minute off the corner was one of a handful of scoring opportunities for the former European Champions in the first half.

The New Zealand keeper saved Dimitrios Kourbelis' header, only for Giorgos Giakoumakis to get the loose ball into the net.

All Whites skipper Chris Wood made it through the first half but was taken off at halftime as he manages a hamstring injury.

Greece held on to their 2-0 half-time advantage as New Zealand kept them goalless in a second-half.

The All Whites play Ireland in Dublin on Wednesday in their final match of the season.

New Zealand will be looking for an improved outing with next year looming as an important one with the start of FIFA World Cup 2024 qualifying.